At The Drake Center, it’s no surprise our families are a bit…furry. From dogs and cats to horses, chickens and an emu, we’d like you to meet the loves of our lives—our pets. 

Proud pet parent:Mary, Registered Veterinary Technician

  • Morgan, military macaw
  • Jordan, blue fronted Amazon
  • Nikki, Maine Coon mix

If you had to choose, would you say you are a cat person or a dog person? Why?

I am both. I am an animal lover of all kinds. I have a love and attraction to all living creatures, wild and domestic. I cannot recall a single moment in my life without pets.

I really miss having a dog, but I know the right dog will come into my life at the right time. I never have to look for new pets; they come to me when the time is right.

How did you get your pets? Why did you choose those particular breeds?

Morgan came into my life when I was working at a bird sanctuary about 15 years ago. She and I were attracted to each other from the moment we met, so I took her home! They told me she had been at the sanctuary for several years and had not bonded with anyone. 

Jordan came from a technician friend who needed to find a home for him. My friend was worried he would not fit in at my house, since at the time I had numerous dogs, cats and birds. But Jordan moved right in like he belonged to us. 

Nikki just came to us this year from my co-worker, Christine. He has been a blessing to our household. We lost our 15-year-old dog and our nine-year-old cat last year and were devastated beyond words. Nikki marched right into our lives at the right time to give us major kitty love just when we needed it most.

What is special about your pets?   

Morgan rules the roost. She has always been and will always be the alpha pet in our household. 

Jordan had a broken neck as a young bird, so he has this odd cock-eyed way of holding his head and swaying it back and forth. Very cute! 

Now, Nikki I could write a book about! He is by far the most talkative, animated, athletic, entertaining and needy cat I have ever owned. I call him a Labrador in cat’s clothing because he never lets me out of his sight. There is never a dull moment with Nikki.  I have a serious love affair with him.

What is the cutest thing about your pets, physically?

Morgan and I cuddle every night before bedtime and she nuzzles into my neck and coos just like a baby.

Jordan has a beautiful whistle. He loves to whistle!

In my eyes, Nikki is stunningly beautiful and he knows it.  He walks with an air about him, so confident with his beautiful fluffy tail held straight up.

What do you let your pets get away with that you probably shouldn't? 

Morgan screams bloody murder and I let her do it.  Have you ever heard a macaw scream at the top of her lungs?

Nikki owns our sunroom. He does whatever he wants in there, lounges on the bar counter, gets into the sink and climbs on all the furniture. 

What is your favorite memory or story about your pets? 

In his very short time with us, Nikki has supplied us with hundreds of memories and photos. He is such a powerful force in our household. We just love his “frogman” pose. He constantly lays on his belly with all four legs sprawled out like a frog. It’s incredibly cute!

What do your pets bring to the dynamic of your family?

Lots of love, laughter, memories and much joy.